Large-scale Industrial Smart Cities to Drive Economic Growth in India
The Indian government is set to develop 12 new smart cities dedicated exclusively to industrial activities, aiming to boost economic growth and create job opportunities. These cities will serve as specialized industrial hubs, each focused on a specific sector. According to officials, the development of these cities will span over a period of three years and require an overall investment of Rs 286 billion.
Creating Industrial Hubs Tailored to Specific Sectors
The upcoming smart cities will be strategically designed to cater to different industries, ensuring maximum productivity and efficiency. One of these cities, located in Agra, is proposed to be a hub for electric vehicles and electronics system design and manufacturing (ESDM). Meanwhile, Palakkad is expected to focus on the production of medicines and botanicals.
In the city of Gaya, the emphasis will be on generating employment opportunities through the establishment of food processing units, light engineering industries, and metal-related enterprises.
A Pan-Indian Development Initiative
The efforts to build these industrial smart cities are not confined to a single region or state. Irrigating the ripple effect of economic progress across India, the cities are spread across 10 states, including Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Kerala, and Telangana. Moreover, these cities will be aligned with six major industrial corridors, ensuring easy connectivity and enhanced economic integration between different regions.
A Unique Concept: Industrial and Residential Coexistence
Contrary to the traditional model of segregating industrial and residential areas, these new smart cities will be designed to foster coexistence. In other words, both industrial and residential areas will thrive side by side, providing ample opportunities for professionals seeking career growth and a high quality of life.
The infrastructure of these cities will be constructed with the concept of “walk-to-work” in mind, reducing the reliance on automobiles and enhancing the convenience of daily commuting. Additionally, these cities will offer essential amenities such as potable drinking water and 24-hour electricity, ensuring a sustainable and comfortable environment for residents and workers alike.
A Boost for Specific Industries
Several of the new smart cities have been strategically identified to specialize in certain sectors. Bidkin, located in Maharashtra, is expected to emerge as an automotive hub, attracting investments and bolstering the local automotive industry. Dighi, on the other hand, aims to facilitate port-led industrialization and industry-led urbanization, while also promoting eco-tourism.
Furthermore, the city of Gaya has identified hospitality-focused ventures as a key sector for growth, while Agra is witnessing interest from the healthcare industry, which sees potential in the city’s development plans.
India’s Growing International Allure
Japan, Singapore, Switzerland, and Taiwan have expressed their interest in participating in the dedicated industrial spaces within these smart cities. Switzerland’s interest in particular has been fueled by the India-European Free Trade Association (EFTA) agreement, under which India has secured a commitment of $100 billion in investments over the next 15 years. The involvement of these countries further validates the sound economic potential of these smart cities.
In conclusion, the development of these industrial smart cities marks a significant step towards achieving economic growth and expanding employment opportunities in India. By catering to specific sectors, fostering residential and industrial coexistence, and attracting foreign investments, these cities have the potential to become vibrant centers of economic activity, propelling India towards a prosperous future.
